Biomimetic Soft Robot
Project Goal: Create a scaled up model of C. atlantica (pteropod) for further analysis of clap-and-fling lift generation. Master’s thesis project at University of South Florida.
Client: Murphy Fluid Lab at USF
Field: Laboratory Research
Results: Developed a 25x scale model of pteropod wings. Robotic model created with fluidic soft actuators, manufactured with 3d printed molds and poured silicon. Driven using pressure applied via solenoid valves controlled by Arduino. Wing motion kinematics analyzed for comparison to C. atlantica. Master’s thesis approved by USF board, and project accepted for presentation at Florida Fluid Symposium 2024.
Skills Demonstrated: Literature Review, Concept Development, Prototype Creation, Electro-mechanical system design, Arduino coding, Detailed statistical analysis
Note: Project completed as Master's thesis at University of South Florida.